Todd McShay projects Bengals to draft Austin Jackson with 2nd-round pick

With the NFL Draft three weeks away, ESPN’s Todd McShay released an updated two-round mock draft where he sees the Cincinnati Bengals adding LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, while also finding the Heisman winner some protection.

McShay projects the Bengals to select USC Trojans offensive tackle Austin Jackson with the 33rd overall pick and first pick of the second round.

He explains the pick by saying, “Last year’s first-rounder Jonah Williams will be back after missing his rookie year, but that won’t entirely fix the Bengals’ O-line. Jackson can handle speed off the edge, which will help Burrow settle in with his new offense.”

This pick would make all the sense in the world for the Bengals.

Despite Andy Dalton’s individual struggles, his rough 2020 season was made much worse by Cincinnati’s inability to protect him.

With Burrow likely coming to town, they’ll need to give him time to throw so he can show off his accurate arm and move the ball down the field.

At 6-6 and 310 pounds, Jackson would bring much-needed size to the offensive tackle position. He’s also known as an excellent pass protector as he won earned First-team All-Pac-12 honors; as a result last season.

Would you be happy with the Bengals landing Jackson with the 33rd overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft? Sound off below!